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Get a Spotless Stove (and Beyond)

The more you put off cleaning an appliance -- like the dreaded oven, the more the grime -- and dread -- builds up. But keeping it clean is critical from an aesthetic and a practical standpoint. Without proper maintenance, fuel ports and hood vents can clog and ovens can smoke.

Here, then, is Martha's step-by-step guide for taking the stove top, vent hood, oven, toaster, microwave, and countertop grill from grease-spattered and blackened to gleaming overnight. Her method requires no more than a couple of hours of active time and a few cleaning products (and most of the products are chemical free). Should you need added incentive, consider this: "If you thoroughly clean the oven, and then maintain it after every use," Martha says, "you should never have to do such a dirty job again."

The Hood

The hood clears the air of smoke and grease from everyday cooking, but they can leave their mark. Over time, stains can build up and vents can clog. Clean the exterior of the hood weekly and the filters monthly.

How to Clean the Vent Hood

The Stove Top

Follow these steps for getting the most spatter-prone part of the oven sparkling again.

How to Clean the Stove Top

The Oven

Spatters and drips are inevitable. Here's how to tackle the oven (whether or not yours has a self-cleaning function) if you've neglected it awhile.

How to Clean the Oven

The Toaster

You've conquered the big job -- the oven. But the task of cleaning these little cookers can feel out of proportion with their modest size. The good news: With five minutes and these techniques, you can get them looking new.

How to Clean the Toaster